Understanding Schema Play

Schemas are patterns of repeated behavior that allow children to develop an understanding of the world around them through play and exploration.

Schemas are mental models or processes that we create by trial and error through experiences.

Kids are the perfect example of how we build schemas to understand the world around us. They are constantly testing out new concepts.

You can easily notice these patterns of behavior in older infants and toddlers. Things like banging, pulling, pushing, and spinning are all examples of schema play.

Think of schemas as instructions for how to do things. By going through these “instructions” over and over children develop both physically and cognitively.

With these skills they are better able to engage in the world around them.

It’s important to note that children can play within multiple schemas at the same time. Play patterns are constantly changing and growing with your child.

One of the absolute most incredible things about play schemas is that it doesn’t matter where a child grows up, what language they speak, the color of their skin or the their family’s economic status; all kids exhibit these same play schemas

It’s something that naturally connects children all over the world.

Why do schemas matter?

Schemas help children make sense of the world around them. They allow us to predict what will happen next based on past experience.

At what age does schema play happen?

Schema play happens at different ages depending on the skill level required by the schema.

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